When the temperatures drop and you crave something warm and comforting, a bowl of creamy butternut squash soup is the perfect answer. This velvety soup is packed with natural sweetness, earthy spices, and a touch of creaminess, making it a go-to for those who love winter vegetable recipes. Whether you’re serving it as a starter or a main dish, this soup brings warmth and nourishment in every spoonful.
Creamy Butternut Squash Soup
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 45 minutes mins
Total Time 1 hour hr
Course Appetizer, Soup
Cuisine American, French
- 1 medium butternut squash peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 1 small onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for a dairy-free option
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup optional
- Pumpkin seeds and fresh thyme for garnish
Roast the butternut squash
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized. Roasting enhances the natural sweetness of the squash, making it a key step in perfecting the flavor.
Sauté the aromatics
In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic, cinnamon, and smoked paprika, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Blend the soup
Add the roasted winter vegetables (butternut squash) and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a gentle simmer, then use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until creamy.
Finish and serve
Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk) and maple syrup. Let the soup warm through for a few minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with pumpkin seeds and fresh thyme.
Pairings
This soup pairs beautifully with a crusty baguette, grilled cheese sandwich, or a fresh green salad. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside roasted chickpeas or a quinoa salad for a well-balanced addition to your collection of vegetarian winter recipes.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen butternut squash?
Yes! If using frozen squash, skip the roasting step and add it directly to the pot with the sautéed onions and garlic.
2. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Coconut milk, cashew cream, or even Greek yogurt can be great alternatives for a dairy-free or lighter version.
3. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat.
